Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Sat 11 April 2026 8:10, UK

Ao Tanaka has had to bide his time to get a chance for Leeds United this season, but Daniel Farke‘s latest message may hint he has a significant role to play yet.

The Japan midfielder was one of the key assets that helped the Whites secure promotion last season. However, this season, his position in the pecking order has seen a stark contrast.

Starts and minutes for the 27-year-old have been few and far between, leading to speculation about his future at Elland Road.

The midfielder is a fan favourite, and a departure would certainly leave many disappointed.

However, ahead of Leeds’ clash against Manchester United, Farke’s latest rally towards Tanaka provides hope yet for the Japan international.

What did Daniel Farke say about Ao Tanaka?

After his performances last campaign, the situation that Tanaka finds himself in may have surprised many of the Elland Road faithful.

Despite his lack of game time, Tanaka has been attracting interest away from Leeds ahead of the summer window.

However, there may yet be hope for the midfielder in LS11, with Farke offering a new landscape for the Japan international.

Farke has been impressed with Tanaka over recent weeks, believing the midfielder has begun making huge steps in training.

The German said at his pre-Manchester United press conference: “What I’ve seen in the recent weeks was not just encouraging, but also something I was very happy about, because [Tanaka] has stepped up in training.

“This is why at West Ham he produced a really, really good performance.”

Of course, it will be a positive omen for Tanaka, who may finally get a chance to shine for the Whites on the Premier League level.

The Japan international has had plenty of individual moments, including his late equaliser against Liverpool, but consistency with performances, starts and minutes has yet to arrive.

Why Tanaka has no excuses left at Leeds United

Tanaka has finally got back into Farke’s good books, and with an injury to Anton Stach, there is an open spot up for grabs in the starting lineup.

After impressing against West Ham, Tanaka will feel confident about his chances of a comeback as an import Leeds player.

The midfielder, if handed a start, must perform, as if he falls at the very first hurdle, he will have no more excuses other than to blame himself for failing to take his chance.

Now is the time for Tanaka to show his true worth and potentially save his Elland Road future.